National Islands Plan: equality impact assessment

Conclusion

The EQIA has confirmed that the National Islands Plan is broadly inclusive, with significant potential to advance equality and support fair access to services and opportunities. The Plan’s human-rights-based approach, combined with strong community engagement and clear commitments to addressing demographic challenges, sets a positive framework for promoting equality across Scotland’s islands.

While no unlawful discrimination was identified, the EQIA has influenced key aspects of the Plan’s development, including strengthening its focus on inclusive participation, ensuring accessibility, and embedding statutory PSED responsibilities into implementation and monitoring. Continued monitoring, partnership working, and evidence gathering will be essential to ensure that the Plan delivers equitable outcomes for all islanders, regardless of their protected characteristics.

Sign off

Name: Anna Densham

Job title: Deputy Director, Land Reform, Rural and Islands Policy

Date: 28 January 2026